Honors College Pulse Session to Discuss Sexual Assault

Honors students Richard Tiffany and Carter Buckner will present the latest Honors College Pulse discussion, titled "Break the Silence — Let's Talk About Sexual Assault," at 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8 in the upstairs honors study lounge in Gearhart Hall. The Honors College Pulse Series is a student-led effort to foster dialogue on pressing subjects in our communities. All students, members of the community, faculty and staff are welcome participate.

This week's Honors College Pulse Series will feature an open conversation about sexual assault. Studies show that more than one-quarter of undergraduate women at the University of Arkansas will have experienced sexual assault by the time they graduate. The percentage is higher in the LGBTQ community, with almost half experiencing some form of assault in their lifetime.

The program will feature small groups led by student moderators. This talk will center around open conversation in a safe space to start asking why this affects so many, and will dive deeper than simply an academic discussion. A wide range of topics will be covered including restorative justice, victimization, and how to create strong support networks — all in an effort to improve how we address this issue.

Honors student moderator Carter Buckner had this to say of the program and its importance: "This is an opportunity to share your perspectives on dealing with sexual assault, its aftermath and hear from others. If you are a survivor of sexual assault, want to be an ally, or just want to learn more, all are welcome. It's time for students to begin bridging the divide in our communities through meaningful discussion. Let's be the ones to recognize where we can be a help to others by being the ones to start the conversation. Come share your thoughts, questions, and stories. It takes all of us to end sexual assault. Come share with us."